Most sides playing three at the back aim to have at least two comfortable in possession so they can help initiate moves but we only have one CB capable of playing with the ball (Morrison) and last couple of games we haven't had any. Most teams that play 3-4-3 have a two in midfield who work hard not to give up space but move the ball around quickly and effectively and we have....well, you know. Think everyone on here had concerns about starting line-up pre-game, Bacuna has played well offensively so my concern was primarily giving up so much space defensively without gaining any control of the ball, and while some raised concerns about delay to use the bench again since this time I'm happy with MM explanation that he wanted starting players to show some fight.
Nigel Pearson made the point yesterday that he's willing to blood young players but doing so into a negative, losing environment can have longer term impact on their careers. I am not calling for us to take it to the extreme on the pitch after such bad loss but this season appears done and with 6 games left it's time to start thinking about what we want to be during the 2022-2023 season.
Think some of the complaints made this season are likely to be raised again in 2021-2022 but as long as we stay up and build for year after that's manageable. That means identifying the right mix of leaders and using them to help bring though our exciting youth prospects and aiming for a more balanced style as well - Fulham weren't sexy last year under Parker but they were tight at the back, capable on the ball and ruthless in front of goal. Having such an experienced manager should help ride any rough patches.
2022-2023 season really isn't that far away so getting the summer window, even with difficulties since rumoured, and next year right should ensure the best chance of a run at promotion for that critical season.